By waxing your car, you can not only enhance its look, but can also protect it from harsh environmental conditions. For this, you can opt for professional waxing services, or you can do it yourself. If your car has not been waxed for a long time, then it is better to take some professional help, after which you can wax the car on your own in every two to three months. Car waxing should be considered an important part of vehicle care and maintenance. The application of wax can give a sleek shine to your vehicle, and add depth and richness to the paint. Though you can wax your car with hand, the use of a commercial buffer can give it a showroom finish.
Buffer for Waxing Automobile
A buffer is an electrical device that is employed for applying wax on vehicles. Some buffers work at a high speed to give a sleeker finish to the vehicles. However, high-speed professional buffers should be used with caution. If you apply pressure while using such a buffer, and hold it in one place, it can damage the car, besides burning the paint.
Therefore, all types of buffers, especially the high-speed professional ones are not suitable for inexperienced individuals. A beginner should better opt for a buffer that works at a low speed, such as a random orbital buffer. The cost of a buffer can vary depending on the size of the device, and also the particular brand. A few reputed brands are, Black & Decker, Advanced Tool Design, and Meguiars. Before purchasing a buffer of any particular brand, it is important to find out the type with which you can work comfortably.
The Right Way to Use a Wax Buffer
Choose the Right Wax
Car wax is available in three forms – liquid, paste, and spray. Liquid wax usually does not last as long as the paste. Whatever type you prefer, select the one that does not contain any abrasive substance. A wax that is formulated to be gentle on the car paint is the right product.
Wash the Car
Before applying the wax, wash your car thoroughly to remove all dirt, dust, and grime from the exterior. If the car is not washed completely, and it contains residues, these will become distinct after waxing. For cleaning your car, you can use a gentle soap that is made specifically for automobiles. After cleaning, rinse the car thoroughly with slightly warm water, and then dry it with a clean towel.
Apply the Wax
Apply the wax on your car only when it is completely dry. Before applying the wax, consider covering the cracks and crevices on the body of the car with masking tapes. If the wax enters these areas, it can become quite difficult to clean up. To apply wax on your car, you will need a small and soft sponge. Moisten the sponge lightly and then dip it in a small amount of wax. Now, apply the wax on the car by rubbing the sponge in a circular motion. Apply the wax in one section at a time. Do not use excessive wax.
Use the Buffer
Take the buffer and spread the wax applied on the car with the help of the buffer pad. Spreading the wax a bit will help you to avoid splatterings. However, do not turn on the buffer while doing so. Turn on the buffer once you have spread the wax a bit. Then slowly and gently smooth in the wax applied. Do not apply any kind of pressure while doing so. Gently guide the buffer with your hand, and let it move over the area smoothly. In this way, keep moving the buffer in straight lines following the bodyline of the car. Avoid pushing the buffer pad while doing so.
Remove the Wax
Once the wax applied has dried and attained a slightly opaque or hazy look, you can remove it with the help of the buffer. Place the wax removal cloth on the buffer, and run it using long and downward strokes in order to remove the wax from the car. Do not allow the buffer to sit in one place, and never work in circles while removing the wax.
A buffer can make the entire process of waxing a car much easier and less time-consuming. It can help apply the wax evenly with less effort. Waxing can help enhance the look of your car, and increase its longevity by protecting it from harsh environmental conditions, sunlight, and bird droppings. But remember that a buffer needs to be used with care. If not used properly, it can leave behind paint burns and whorls, that can ruin the look of your car.